OVERVIEWLymphedema is swelling that happens when something affects your lymphatic system. Lymphedema often affects your arms and legs, but may also affect other areas of your body.

Healthcare providers can’t cure lymphedema, but they can ease its symptoms. Lymphedema symptoms may be mild, causing minor swelling and discomfort.

Sometimes, however, lymphedema may cause significant swelling that can be painful and cause skin issues such as infections and wounds. Healthcare providers can’t cure lymphedema, but they do have treatments to reduce swelling It can be.

If you have lymphedema, you may be at risk of developing infections that start in your skin. These infections may be life-threatening.

Rarely, lymphedema may also lead to a very rare skin cancer. If you have lymphedema, your arms, legs, feet and other areas of your body may look and feel swollen.

Lymphedema can be painful and may affect your ability to manage daily activities. Many people with lymphedema feel self-conscious about the ways it changes their appearance.

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